Greener Banking Set For Chicago Location

Watch out, TD Bank–there’s a new kid on the green banking block, also targeting LEED certification for its latest location.

GreenChoice Bank’s new Chicago location is on track to become the first LEED Platinum community bank location in the Midwest, and one of only a few in the country. This “purposefully small” (3,800 square feet) flagship facility is expected to join the city’s new Green Exchange this August, and will be targeting LEED for Commercial Interiors.

image via Green Bank

This bank is more than a traditional bank with a pretty green face. As part of its mission as a certified B Corporation, GreenChoice leverages funds on deposit to invest in the local and sustainable economy. It offers special checking and savings accounts with higher rates designed for those actively embracing sustainability through their account activity, and advantaged terms are available to commercial clients that manage green businesses, build sustainably and create green collar jobs.

Green features of the building include reclaimed wood, re-used and repurposed materials, non-VOC paints, high-efficiency lighting, and locally-sourced recycled content materials in countertops, wall systems and flooring. The bank as a whole also embraces green principles, including energy efficient operations and recycled plastic debit cards.

Susan DeFreitas has covered all manner of green technology for EarthTechling since 2009. She is a graduate of Prescott College for the Liberal Arts and the Environment, and has a background in marketing green businesses. Her work on green living has been featured in Yes! Magazine, the Utne Reader and Natural Home.